Hydrology and isotope geochemistry

This book gathers recent works in hydrology and isotopic geochemistry. Part I exposes the general water cycle, from precipitations to deep aquifers, through the analysis of hydrogen, oxygen and carbon isotopic composition. Regional types are laid out from high latitudes (Spitzberg), through temperate regions (Parisian Basin), to the tropics (the Soudanian-Sahelian) Niger Basin). The significance of isotopic techniques for Global Change analysis in shown in part II. Several case studies, mainly in Africa, reconstruct the hydro-climatic history through the pluri-proxy analysis of sediment profiles, where isotopic geochemistry is key. The last glacial maximum cooling is shown to have been homogeneous throughout middle and low latitudes, based upon noble gases isotopic analysis in groundwaters. The interpretation of some isotopic analysis could sometimes be questionable due to the organic origin of carbon in some sedimented carbonates. Part III refers to isotopes of cosmic origin and to in situ production of radionuclides. 14C dating is reminded to have contributed to our understanding of climate change mechanisms during the last glacial and post-glacial periods. Both the limitations and the recent improvements in this methodology are highlighted in a well documented synthesis. Isotopic data enable geochemistry to be the base for modelling stability conditions in the Oklo natural fossil nuclear fission reactor. (author)